A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Versailles vs. Como for Attractions, Food, and Couples

Should you visit Versailles or Como?

Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Versailles or Como, this travel comparison, which includes costs, can help. The overall cost of travel is usually a consideration when deciding where to go next, and the cost comparison down below can help you decide based on the average prices from other travelers along with your own travel budget.

Versailles

Versailles is a beautiful, grand, and ornate palace. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. It's also popular because of the museums.

Como

Como is a vibrant, scenic, and trendy lake area. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. Other reasons to visit include shopping, nightlife, and food.

Versailles and Como: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for food
  • Less family-friendly
Pros
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Active nightlife
  • Popular beach
  • Good for hiking
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights


Is there more to do in Versailles or Como?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Como than Versailles, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Como is better known for its food, nightlife, beaches, hiking, and shopping, while Versailles is more popular for its museums. Versailles is well known for its long running history and its grand architecture. Como is well known for its long-running history as a resort retreat for upscale travelers. Also, Como is famous for the lakeside setting.

How is Versailles different from Como?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Como and Versailles. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Versailles or Como?

Versailles
Como

Versailles is renowned for its museums and history. However, Como is lacking in options for its museums and landmarks.

With plenty of landmarks, attractions, and museums, Versailles has many famous sights for visitors. The palace is filled with history and impressive items relating to the royal family. Within and near the palace you should make sure you see the Gardens of Versailles, Grand Trianon, the Hall of Mirrors, and the Royal Opera of Versailles.

Como offers a handful of options for museums and historical sights. Most people visit for the lakeside setting, but there's history throughout, with notable buildings including the Duomo, Museo Civico, and Basilica di Sant'Abbondio.


Is the Food Better in Versailles or Como? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Versailles
Como

Como is an amazing lake area to visit for its local flavors and cuisine. However, Versailles is not known for its local cuisine and restaurants.

Known for it's food and restaurant scene, Como is always at the top of any foodie's travel list. The area has its own style of Italian food. Polenta is one of the most popular dishes and it's usually served with meat, fish, or cheese. You can also enjoy several different types of fish such as misultitt (dried fish), salmon trout, pike, bleak, lavarello, and perch.

You'll find the standard options when it comes to food in Versailles. There are a couple of restaurants and cafes on the grounds.

Is Versailles or Como Better for Nightlife?

Versailles
Como

Como is a nice place to visit for nightlife. However, Versailles is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

If you're looking for night time activities Como has a few options to choose from. It is more known for its glamour and sophistication than its raging party scene. There are fine dining restaurants where you can sip wine and enjoy the view. There are also theaters and jazz clubs that offer a relaxing vibe and a nice night out.

Versailles is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

Is Versailles or Como Better for Beaches?

Versailles
Como

Como is a nice place to visit for its beaches. However, Versailles is not a beach destination.

Como has a beach worth visiting. You'll find lakeside beaches where you can relax, sunbath, or swim. Many are affiliated with clubs and the atmosphere is often trendy and upscale. Don't expect a secluded and natural setting, but there are often nice restaurants nearby.

Versailles is not a beach destination.


Is Versailles or Como Better for Hiking?

Versailles
Como

Como is a great lake area for hiking. However, Versailles is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors go to Como for the hiking trails. There's a wide variety of hiking trails in the area that take you through the mountains or along the water's edge. One of the most popular trails is the Greenway del Lago di Como.

Versailles is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Versailles or Como?

Versailles
Como

Como is an amazing lake area to visit for shopping. However, Versailles is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

People travel from around the world to go shopping in Como. The shopping is comparable to major cities, with everything from high end boutiques to outlets and local markets. There are clothing shops, jewelry stores, and places to pick up local souvenirs. Shopping is a favorite activity for many visitors to Lake Como.

Versailles is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Versailles or Como Better for Families?

Versailles
Como

Como is a great lake area for its kid-friendly activities. However, Versailles is not known for its family-friendly activities.

Como is a very family-friendly destination. It has parks and gardens to explore, as well as Vezio Castle and many nice walking trails. A highlight for many kids is a visit to Lake Como Adventure Park.

Versailles does not offer many kid-friendly activities. While there are those unicorn children who fall in love with the grand setting, for most kids, a visit to Versailles can make for make for a long and draining day.


Is Versailles or Como Better for Couples?

Versailles
Como

Como is an amazing lake area to visit for romance. Also, Versailles is not as popular, but is still a nice palace for its romantic activities.

Como has so much to offer for a romantic couple's vacation. Its beautiful walks, charming towns, and surrounding natural setting make this a great honeymoon and couple's getaway destination. Dine on Italian cuisine as you sip wine and look out on the pristine waters of Lake Como.

Versailles is a very popular place to visit for couples. It's opulence, grandeur, and history make this a wonderful place to explore as a couple. There are gardens and other unique settings that make Versailles very romantic.

Is Versailles or Como Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Versailles
Como

Como is a great lake area for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Versailles is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

Como is very popular with the backpacker crowd. It's a popular destination with all types of travelers, so you'll find a decent selection of hostels to choose from, and a number of other backpackers around to hang out with.

Versailles is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

Is Versailles or Como Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Versailles
Como

Versailles is an excellent place to visit for times when you don't have a car. Also, Como is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its public transit.

Many visitors use the public transit system in Versailles. There are SNCF trains that travel from Gare Montparnasse to Versailles Chantiers train station and additional trains that travel between Gare Saint Lazare and Versailles Rive Droite.

You'll find some public transit in Como, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There are buses, ferries, and a funicular that travel to different towns around the lake.


Is Versailles or Como a more walkable city?

Versailles
Como

Versailles and Como are superb when it comes to walkability.

Versailles is very walkable. It's approximately a 20 minute walk from the Versailles Chantiers train station to the entrance to the palace. Versailles Rive Droite is slightly closer.

Como is a very walkable palace. The entire area is very walkable and you'll enjoy many great views during your stroll.

For even more information, also check out Is Versailles Worth Visiting? and Is Como Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Como or Versailles?

How long in Versailles or Como?

It's fun to spend time in either Versailles or Como. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Como due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 1-2 days is a good amount of time for Versailles, and 2-4 days is enough time in Como.

Families should spend more time in Como than Versailles. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Como, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

Couples should spend more time in Como than Versailles. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Como that are perfect for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Como than Versailles if your budget allows for it. With a larger number of budget-friendly sights, good nightlife, and active things to do, anyone traveling on a budget would have a good time in Como.


  • How many days in Versailles or Como? Ideal Length of Stay
    Versailles 1-2 
    Como 2-4

One day in Versailles or Como?

Visitors enjoy the museums when visiting the destination of Versailles. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One day is usually enough time to experience most activities.

With shopping and nightlife around the fun lake area of Como, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Versailles or Como?

Versailles is a fun place to experience. Most people visit for the museums. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. A weekend is often enough time to do most activities. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

With nightlife and food around the destination of Como, there's plenty to do. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. It offers something for everyone. Many people spend a weekend here. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this lake area.


Five days in Versailles or Como?

You'll find museums around the beautiful destination of Versailles. This palace offers something for everyone. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Como, a popular lake area, is full of activities for travelers. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

A week in Versailles or Como?

The grand palace of Versailles offers museums. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. One week is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips.

Como is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Sightseeing Tours in France, The Best Vineyard & Wine Tours in France, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Rome, and The Best 10-Day Tours from Rome.


Which place is cheaper, Como or Versailles?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

The average daily cost (per person) in Versailles is €234, while the average daily cost in Como is €214. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Versailles and Como in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Versailles 128
    Como 146
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Versailles 256
    Como 292
Compare Hotels in Versailles and Como

Looking for a hotel in Versailles or Como? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.

Hotels in Versailles


Hotels in Como


Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.


Our Analysis
We've analyzed the average and typical hotel prices based on guest reviews, star ratings, and hotel amenities here: Versailles Hotel Prices and Como Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Versailles 53
    Como 14

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Como

Also for Como, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • From Como : Private 1-Way Transfer to Malpensa airport: $336
  • From Private 1-Way Transfer to Linate airport: $306
  • From Milan center : Private 1-Way Transfer to Como: $275
  • Milan Private Transfer from Cernobbio (Como) to Milan airports (LIN or MPX): $243
  • Private Transfer: Lake Como to Milan Airport MXP in Luxury Van: $236
  • Argegno: Private Transfer to/from Malpensa Airport: $235
  • Como Private Transfer from Como city centre to Milan Malpensa Airport: $221
  • Pirvate transfer from Malpensa airport to Como and Cernobbio: $207
  • From Bellagio or Como hotels to Venice (+water taxi) - Private Transfer: $193
  • Private Transfer from Lezzeno or Pognana Lario or Faggeto Lario: $169
  • Private transfer from Lenno or Argegno or Ossuccio: $147
  • Bellagio to Malpensa Airport Milan (MXP) - Departure Private Transfer: $78

Is it cheaper to fly into Versailles or Como?

Prices for flights to both Como and Versailles change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.





Food
  • Food Meals for one day
    Versailles 67
    Como 60

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Como

For Como, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • COOKING, EATING, LOVING - Lasagna cooking Class for everyone!: $45
  • Cantonese Dimsum Cooking Lesson in Como or Lugano with Chef Ling: $49
  • Dining Experience at a local's Home in Lentate Verbano with Show Cooking: $93
  • Lake Como Food Tour - Eat like a real Local: $108
  • Tour and historical dinner: Lake Como 1690: $131
  • Como Food Tour and the Farmers Market: $139
  • Homemade Pasta Cooking Class: $160
  • Como Area: Pizza Training Experience: $160
  • Pizza Training Experience. Como Area: $163
  • Lecco Bike Tour & Pizza Lunch: $163
  • Private Market Tour & Lunch or Dinner with a Local: $171
  • Como Food Tour: $180

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Versailles 45
    Como -

Tours and Activities in Versailles

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Versailles.

  • Versailles Palace Private Family Tour Designed for Kids: $261
  • Palace Guided Tour with Skip-the-Line Ticket: $67
  • Private Guided Tour of the Palace: $261

Tours and Activities in Como

For Como, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • A Self-Guided Walking Tour of Como and its Breathtaking Lakeside: $20
  • “Public Tour” Lake Como By SuBacco: $131
  • 1 Hour Boat Tour of Lake Como from Bellagio: $43
  • 1 or 2 Hours Private Boat Tour on Lake villas and more: $374
  • 1 or 2 hours Private Boat Tour on Lake Como with Prosecco: $374
  • 2 Hours Como Private Walking Tour: $179
  • 2 Hours Como Private Walking Tour: $182
  • 2 hours Private Boat Tour Como Lake: $933
  • 2 hours Private and Exclusive Clay sculpture Art experience : $294
  • 2 hours Private boat tour on lake of Como: $909
  • 2h Boat Tour with Classic Venetian Limousine in Menaggio: $734
  • 3 Hour Private Kayaking Experience on Lake Como: $120

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Versailles 18
    Como -

Sample the Local Flavors in Como

Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in Como:

  • Domaso: Wine Tasting at the Winery on Como Lake: $60
  • Italian Wine Tasting & Food Como Lake: $70
  • Lake Food and Wine tour in Colico: $114
  • Wine Tastings with Chef Luigi Gandola: $135
  • Private Wine Tasting in Bellagio with Chef Luigi Gandola: $185
  • Food and Wine Tours Lake Como: $196


When comparing the travel costs between Versailles and Como, we can see that Versailles is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Since both cities are in Europe, it's no surprise that their costs are relatively close, as many destinations here have somewhat similar travel prices overall.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Versailles Expensive? and Is Como Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Versailles or Como?

Versailles has a larger population, and is about 9% larger than the population of Como. When comparing the sizes of Versailles and Como, keep in mind that a larger population does not always imply the destination has more attractions or better activities. So, always research the type of place that you want to visit along with the activities and attractions that interest you.


When is the best time to visit Versailles or Como?

Both destinations experience a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. And since both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Versailles or Como in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Versailles and Como. Furthermore, the beaches, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Como this time of year.

In July, Versailles is generally cooler than Como. Daily temperatures in Versailles average around 20°C (68°F), and Como fluctuates around 23°C (73°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Como this time of the year. In Versailles, it's very sunny this time of the year. Versailles usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Como during summer. Versailles gets 239 hours of sunny skies, while Como receives 250 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Versailles usually receives around the same amount of rain as Como. Versailles gets 58 mm (2.3 in) of rain, while Como receives 60 mm (2.4 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Versailles 20°C (68°F) 
    Como 23°C (73°F)

Should I visit Versailles or Como in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Versailles as well as Como. The natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Versailles this time of year. Additionally, many travelers come to Como for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

Versailles is cooler than Como in the autumn. The daily temperature in Versailles averages around 13°C (56°F) in October, and Como fluctuates around 15°C (58°F).

In the autumn, Versailles often gets less sunshine than Como. Versailles gets 126 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Como receives 152 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Como. Versailles usually gets less rain in October than Como. Versailles gets 55 mm (2.2 in) of rain, while Como receives 103 mm (4 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Versailles 13°C (56°F) 
    Como 15°C (58°F)

Should I visit Versailles or Como in the Winter?

Both Como and Versailles are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Versailles for the museums and the cuisine. Also, many visitors come to Como in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Como can get quite cold in the winter. Be prepared for some very cold days in Versailles. In the winter, Versailles is around the same temperature as Como. Typically, the winter temperatures in Versailles in January average around 5°C (40°F), and Como averages at about 5°C (41°F).

Versailles usually receives less sunshine than Como during winter. Versailles gets 56 hours of sunny skies, while Como receives 119 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Versailles usually receives less rain than Como. Versailles gets 55 mm (2.2 in) of rain, while Como receives 68 mm (2.7 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Versailles 5°C (40°F) 
    Como 5°C (41°F)

Should I visit Versailles or Como in the Spring?

Both Como and Versailles during the spring are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Versailles in the spring for the natural beauty. Also, most visitors come to Como for the beaches and the natural beauty during these months.

In April, Versailles is generally cooler than Como. Daily temperatures in Versailles average around 11°C (52°F), and Como fluctuates around 13°C (55°F).

In the spring, Versailles often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Como. Versailles gets 173 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Como receives 176 hours of full sun.

Versailles usually gets less rain in April than Como. Versailles gets 50 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Como receives 76 mm (3 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Versailles 11°C (52°F) 
    Como 13°C (55°F)

Typical Weather for Como and Versailles

Versailles Como
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 5°C (40°F) 55 mm (2.2 in) 5°C (41°F) 68 mm (2.7 in)
Feb 6°C (42°F) 45 mm (1.8 in) 6°C (44°F) 60 mm (2.3 in)
Mar 8°C (47°F) 52 mm (2.1 in) 10°C (49°F) 85 mm (3.4 in)
Apr 11°C (52°F) 50 mm (1.9 in) 13°C (55°F) 76 mm (3 in)
May 15°C (59°F) 62 mm (2.4 in) 17°C (62°F) 102 mm (4 in)
Jun 18°C (64°F) 53 mm (2.1 in) 20°C (69°F) 78 mm (3.1 in)
Jul 20°C (68°F) 58 mm (2.3 in) 23°C (73°F) 60 mm (2.4 in)
Aug 20°C (67°F) 46 mm (1.8 in) 22°C (72°F) 94 mm (3.7 in)
Sep 17°C (63°F) 53 mm (2.1 in) 19°C (67°F) 74 mm (2.9 in)
Oct 13°C (56°F) 55 mm (2.2 in) 15°C (58°F) 103 mm (4 in)
Nov 8°C (47°F) 57 mm (2.2 in) 9°C (49°F) 102 mm (4 in)
Dec 5°C (42°F) 55 mm (2.2 in) 6°C (42°F) 60 mm (2.4 in)